Residents Give One-Week Ultimatum to UEDCL Over Faulty Transformer

Residents of Muyenga, Kyaziza, Kampungu, and surrounding areas in Kanoni Town Council, Gomba District, have given the national electricity distribution company one week to replace a failing transformer, warning of possible drastic action if their demand is not met.

Locals say the existing transformer is overwhelmed, unable to meet the growing electricity needs of over 1,500 homes and businesses, compared to fewer than 100 households when it was originally installed.

Power outages are frequent, particularly at night, leaving much of the area in near-total darkness.

Businesses reliant on electricity, including welding workshops, salons, and food vendors, are reportedly struggling.

Residents claim they have spent more than two years petitioning Uganda Electricity Distribution Company (UEDCL) officials and local leaders for an upgrade, but no action has been taken.

“We have called the electricity offices and reported to our leaders, but nothing has changed. Power is unreliable, yet we are still charged for units. We are tired and frustrated,” they said.

Jonah Kiiza urged the community to remain calm and avoid vandalizing infrastructure, noting that such actions are criminal offenses.

He said investigations are ongoing to determine the root cause of the supply issues and assured residents that necessary repairs or upgrades, including installing a new transformer if required, will be addressed in a timely manner.

The residents, however, insist on urgent action, giving the company a strict one-week deadline to resolve the issue before taking matters into their own hands.